What does 'operationalization' describe in research?

Operationalization refers to the process of taking abstract concepts and defining them in specific, measurable terms that can be used in research. This is critical because it allows researchers to translate theoretical constructs into observable and quantifiable variables. For example, if a study is examining "academic achievement," operationalization would involve specifying the measures that will be used to evaluate this concept, such as test scores or grade point averages.

This process ensures that concepts are understood in a way that can be consistently applied in the research context, facilitating data collection and analysis. By establishing clear methods of measurement, operationalization enhances the reliability and validity of research findings, making it a foundational step in the research process. In contrast, the other options relate to aspects of research design or ethical considerations but do not specifically capture the essence of operationalization.